Mammal surveys
February 13, 2011
Optimum time approaching for protected species survey
Late winter and spring are good times to carry out precautionary protected species surveys, where one of our mammal tracking experts carefully walks over a site to look for field signs.
For the riparian mammals such as otter and water vole, provided water levels are not too high, the lack of dense vegetation makes tracking easier. Water vole populations drop in winter, and it can be harder to spot tell-tale feeding signs, but otters are active all year round.
We have been busy over the winter carrying out bat risk assessments - careful inspection of buildings and trees to check for the possible roost sites. This allows us to rule out 'low risk' structures, where there is very little chance of bats occurring, and identify the priorities for further survey.
We have mammal surveyors with a lot of experience of tracking and detection of field signs. Should you wish to carry out a precautionary protected species survey, now is a good time to be thinking of it. Contact Paul or Claire for an informal discussion of your needs.